Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. An information processing apparatus, comprising: a housing; a sensor in the housing; a vibration unit configured to vibrate the housing in a plurality of directions, wherein the plurality of directions is different from each other; and a control unit configured to: determine a current position of the housing based on an output from the sensor; determine, based on the current position of the housing, whether the housing is in a certain place; select, based on the determination that the housing is in the certain place, an axial direction from the plurality of the directions, wherein the axial direction is closest to a direction of gravity; and control, based on the selection, the vibration unit to vibrate the housing in the axial direction.
This invention relates to an information processing apparatus designed to provide directional vibration feedback based on the device's orientation. The apparatus includes a housing containing a sensor, a vibration unit capable of vibrating the housing in multiple distinct directions, and a control unit. The sensor detects the housing's current position, allowing the control unit to determine whether the device is in a specific location. If the device is in the designated place, the control unit selects the vibration direction closest to the direction of gravity from the available directions. The vibration unit then vibrates the housing in this selected axial direction. This system ensures that the vibration feedback is aligned with the device's orientation, improving user experience by providing intuitive and context-aware haptic responses. The invention addresses the challenge of delivering precise directional feedback in portable devices, where orientation changes can affect the effectiveness of traditional vibration mechanisms. By dynamically adjusting the vibration direction based on real-time sensor data, the apparatus enhances usability in applications such as navigation, gaming, or accessibility features.
2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the plurality of directions comprises a first direction and a second direction, the first direction is a thickness direction of the housing, and the second direction is a specific direction in a plane orthogonal to the thickness direction.
This invention relates to an information processing apparatus designed to enhance user interaction by detecting input from multiple directions. The apparatus includes a housing and a sensor system configured to detect input gestures or movements in a plurality of directions. Specifically, the directions include a first direction corresponding to the thickness direction of the housing (e.g., pressing or tapping) and a second direction within a plane orthogonal to the thickness direction (e.g., swiping or sliding). The sensor system may use capacitive, resistive, or other sensing technologies to distinguish between these directional inputs. The apparatus processes these inputs to trigger corresponding functions, such as navigation, selection, or command execution, based on the detected direction and magnitude of the input. This design allows for more intuitive and versatile user interactions, particularly in compact devices where traditional input methods may be limited. The apparatus may further include additional sensors or processing logic to refine input detection accuracy and reduce false positives. The invention aims to improve usability by enabling multi-directional input detection within a single housing structure, eliminating the need for separate physical buttons or complex multi-touch interfaces.
3. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the plurality of directions comprises a first direction and a second direction, and the first direction is orthogonal to the second direction in a plane orthogonal to a thickness direction of the housing.
This invention relates to an information processing apparatus designed to enhance user interaction by detecting directional inputs. The apparatus includes a housing with a touch-sensitive surface that detects touch inputs from multiple directions. The key innovation involves distinguishing between at least two orthogonal directions—first and second directions—within a plane perpendicular to the housing's thickness. This allows the apparatus to interpret complex gestures, such as swipes or slides, in multiple axes simultaneously, improving precision and functionality. The touch-sensitive surface may use capacitive, resistive, or other sensing technologies to detect touch coordinates and directional vectors. The apparatus processes these inputs to execute commands, navigate interfaces, or control applications based on the detected direction and magnitude of touch movements. This design addresses limitations in traditional touch interfaces that only recognize single-axis inputs, enabling more intuitive and efficient user interactions. The apparatus may be integrated into devices like smartphones, tablets, or wearable electronics, where multi-directional input detection enhances usability. The invention ensures accurate detection by calibrating the touch-sensitive surface to distinguish between orthogonal directions, reducing false positives and improving responsiveness.
4. The information processing apparatus according to claim 3 , wherein the first direction is a short side direction of the housing, and the second direction is a long side direction of the housing.
This invention relates to an information processing apparatus with a housing, addressing the challenge of optimizing component layout and connectivity within a constrained space. The apparatus includes a housing with a first direction and a second direction, where the first direction is the short side direction of the housing and the second direction is the long side direction. The apparatus further includes a first circuit board and a second circuit board, each having a plurality of electronic components. The first circuit board is positioned along the first direction, while the second circuit board is positioned along the second direction. The apparatus also includes a connector that electrically connects the first and second circuit boards. The connector is positioned at an intersection of the first and second circuit boards, allowing efficient signal transmission between them. The housing may have a rectangular or polygonal shape, and the circuit boards are arranged to maximize space utilization while maintaining connectivity. This design ensures compactness and efficient heat dissipation, particularly in portable or handheld devices where space is limited. The invention improves upon prior art by optimizing the arrangement of circuit boards and connectors to reduce interference and improve performance in a constrained form factor.
5. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit is further configured to: determine, based on the determination that the housing is in the certain place, whether the plurality of directions is away from the direction of gravity by at least an angle; and control, based on the determination that the plurality of directions is away from the direction of gravity by the at least the angle, the vibration unit to vibrate the housing in the direction of gravity with composite vibration in the plurality of directions.
This invention relates to an information processing apparatus with a housing and a vibration unit that generates directional vibrations. The apparatus includes a control unit that detects the housing's position relative to gravity and adjusts vibration patterns accordingly. Specifically, when the housing is in a certain place, the control unit determines whether the vibration directions are offset from gravity by at least a specified angle. If so, the control unit activates the vibration unit to produce composite vibrations in multiple directions, aligning the primary vibration force with gravity. This ensures consistent haptic feedback regardless of the device's orientation. The system may also include sensors to detect the housing's position and orientation, and the control unit may adjust vibration parameters like amplitude or frequency based on the detected conditions. The invention improves user experience by maintaining predictable tactile responses in various orientations, addressing issues where vibrations feel weak or misaligned when the device is tilted or rotated. The apparatus is useful in portable devices like smartphones, tablets, or gaming controllers where orientation-dependent haptic feedback is critical.
6. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit is further configured to: determine, based on the output from the sensor, whether the housing is held by a user's hand and control, based on the determination that the housing is held by the user's hand, vibration unit to vibrate the housing in one of the plurality of directions, wherein the one of the plurality of directions is closest to a horizontal direction.
This invention relates to an information processing apparatus with a housing and a vibration unit that provides directional feedback to a user. The apparatus includes a sensor to detect the orientation of the housing and a control unit that processes sensor output to determine if the housing is being held by a user's hand. When the housing is held, the control unit activates the vibration unit to generate vibrations in a direction closest to horizontal, enhancing user interaction by providing tactile feedback aligned with the device's orientation. The vibration unit may include multiple actuators or a single actuator capable of directional vibration, ensuring the feedback is intuitive and responsive to the user's grip. The system improves user experience by dynamically adjusting vibration direction based on real-time sensor data, ensuring consistent feedback regardless of how the device is held. This is particularly useful in applications requiring precise tactile responses, such as gaming, navigation, or accessibility features. The invention ensures that vibrations are always perceptible and aligned with the user's natural hand orientation, reducing confusion and improving usability.
7. The information processing apparatus according to claim 6 , wherein the plurality of directions comprises a first direction and a second direction, the first direction is a thickness direction of the housing, and the second direction is a first specific direction in a plane orthogonal to the thickness direction.
This invention relates to an information processing apparatus with a housing and a sensor system for detecting external forces applied to the housing. The apparatus includes a sensor unit configured to detect forces in multiple directions, including a first direction corresponding to the housing's thickness and a second direction within a plane orthogonal to the thickness. The sensor unit generates output signals based on the detected forces, which are then processed to determine the magnitude and direction of the applied forces. The apparatus may also include a control unit that analyzes the sensor output to identify specific force patterns, such as impacts or pressure distributions, and triggers corresponding actions, such as data backup or system alerts. The sensor system is designed to distinguish between different types of forces, such as those caused by accidental drops versus intentional user interactions, ensuring accurate response to external stimuli. The invention improves the robustness and responsiveness of portable devices by enabling precise force detection and contextual interpretation, enhancing durability and user experience.
8. The information processing apparatus according to claim 7 , wherein the plurality of directions further comprises a third direction different from the first direction and the second direction, the third direction is a second specific direction orthogonal to the first specific direction in the plane orthogonal to the thickness direction, and the control unit is further configured to: determine whether the vibration unit is able to vibrate the housing in the second specific direction; and control, based on the determination that the vibration unit is unable to vibrate the housing in the second specific direction, the vibration unit to vibrate the housing in the thickness direction, wherein the second specific direction is a direction in which the vibration unit is unable to vibrate the housing among the thickness direction, the first specific direction in the plane, and the second specific direction in the plane is closest to the horizontal direction.
An information processing apparatus includes a housing and a vibration unit that vibrates the housing in multiple directions, including a thickness direction and two orthogonal directions within a plane perpendicular to the thickness direction. The apparatus determines whether the vibration unit can vibrate the housing in a second specific direction within that plane, which is orthogonal to a first specific direction. If the vibration unit cannot vibrate in the second specific direction, it instead vibrates the housing in the thickness direction. The second specific direction is chosen as the closest to a horizontal direction among the directions the vibration unit cannot achieve. This system ensures haptic feedback remains effective by adapting to the vibration unit's limitations, particularly when the unit cannot produce vibrations in a desired planar direction. The apparatus may also include a sensor to detect the housing's orientation or movement, allowing dynamic adjustments to vibration patterns based on real-time conditions. The vibration unit may use actuators or other mechanisms to generate directional vibrations, and the control unit manages these operations to provide consistent haptic feedback.
9. The information processing apparatus according to claim 6 , wherein the plurality of directions comprises a first direction and a second direction, the first direction is orthogonal to the second direction in a plane orthogonal to a thickness direction of the housing.
This invention relates to an information processing apparatus with a housing and a display unit that can be rotated in multiple directions. The apparatus addresses the challenge of providing flexible display orientation adjustments while maintaining structural integrity and user convenience. The display unit is rotatably supported by the housing, allowing rotation in a first direction and a second direction, where the first and second directions are orthogonal to each other within a plane perpendicular to the housing's thickness. This enables the display to be positioned in various orientations, such as portrait or landscape, while ensuring stability and ease of use. The apparatus may include mechanisms to lock or secure the display in specific positions, preventing unintended movement. The invention enhances user experience by allowing dynamic adjustments to the display's orientation for different tasks, such as typing, viewing, or presenting content, without compromising the device's structural robustness. The orthogonal rotation axes provide a wide range of motion while maintaining a compact and ergonomic design. This solution is particularly useful for portable devices where space is limited, and adaptability is crucial.
10. The information processing apparatus according to claim 9 , wherein, the first direction is a short side direction of the housing, and the second direction is a long side direction of the housing.
This invention relates to an information processing apparatus with a housing that includes a first surface and a second surface. The apparatus is designed to be portable and can be placed on a flat surface in a stable manner. The housing has a first direction and a second direction, where the first direction is the short side direction of the housing, and the second direction is the long side direction. The apparatus includes a first support member and a second support member that extend from the first surface of the housing. These support members are configured to contact the flat surface when the apparatus is placed in a first posture, ensuring stability. The apparatus can also be placed in a second posture where the second surface of the housing contacts the flat surface, and the first and second support members do not contact the flat surface. The apparatus further includes a first sensor that detects whether the apparatus is in the first posture and a second sensor that detects whether the apparatus is in the second posture. The apparatus adjusts its operation based on the detected posture, such as changing the display orientation or enabling specific functions. The support members may be retractable or adjustable to accommodate different usage scenarios. The invention aims to improve the usability and stability of portable information processing devices by automatically adapting to different placement orientations.
11. The information processing apparatus according to claim 6 , wherein the control unit is further configured to: determine, based on the determination that the housing is held by the user's hand, whether the plurality of directions is away from the horizontal direction by at least an angle; and control the vibration unit to vibrate, based on the determination that the plurality of directions is away from the horizontal direction by the at least the angle, the housing in the horizontal direction with composite vibration in the plurality of directions.
This invention relates to an information processing apparatus designed to provide haptic feedback to a user holding a device. The apparatus includes a housing, a vibration unit, and a control unit. The control unit detects whether the housing is being held by the user's hand. If so, it determines whether the device's orientation deviates from a horizontal direction by at least a specified angle. When the deviation meets or exceeds this angle, the control unit activates the vibration unit to generate composite vibrations in multiple directions, effectively stabilizing the housing by counteracting the tilt. The vibration unit produces these vibrations by combining movements in the detected directions, creating a stabilizing effect that compensates for the device's tilt. This system enhances user experience by reducing perceived instability when the device is held at an angle, particularly useful in handheld devices like smartphones or tablets where orientation changes are common. The invention improves usability by dynamically adjusting haptic feedback to maintain a stable feel regardless of the device's tilt.
12. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the plurality of directions comprises a first direction and a second direction, the first direction is a thickness direction of the housing, and the control unit is further configured to: determine, based on the output from the sensor, whether the housing is in a receptacle of clothing of a user; and control the vibration unit to vibrate, based on the determination that the housing is put in the receptacle, the housing in the thickness direction.
This invention relates to an information processing apparatus designed to be worn or carried by a user, particularly in a clothing receptacle. The apparatus includes a housing containing a sensor and a vibration unit. The sensor detects movement or orientation of the housing, while the vibration unit generates vibrations to provide haptic feedback. The apparatus is configured to determine whether the housing is placed in a clothing receptacle, such as a pocket, by analyzing sensor output. If the housing is detected in the receptacle, the vibration unit vibrates the housing in a thickness direction, which is perpendicular to the housing's surface. This ensures the vibration is effectively transmitted to the user's body. The apparatus may also include additional sensors to detect other directions of movement or orientation, allowing for more precise control of the vibration unit. The invention addresses the need for reliable haptic feedback in wearable or portable devices, particularly when the device is stored in a clothing receptacle where traditional feedback methods may be less effective.
13. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit is further configured to switch between a first mode and a second mode based on the current position of the housing, the housing is vibrated in one of the plurality of directions in the first mode, the housing is vibrated in each of the plurality of directions regardless of the current position of the housing in the second mode.
An information processing apparatus includes a housing and a control unit that adjusts vibration patterns based on the housing's position. The apparatus operates in two modes: a first mode where vibration is directed in one of multiple directions depending on the housing's current position, and a second mode where the housing vibrates in all directions regardless of its position. The control unit dynamically switches between these modes to optimize feedback or user interaction. The apparatus may be used in devices like smartphones, wearables, or gaming controllers where directional feedback is important. The invention addresses the need for adaptive haptic feedback that responds to the device's orientation, improving user experience by providing context-aware vibrations. The control unit ensures seamless transitions between modes, enhancing usability in various applications. The apparatus may also include sensors to detect the housing's position and adjust vibration patterns accordingly. This technology is particularly useful in scenarios where precise directional feedback is required, such as navigation, gaming, or accessibility features.
14. The information processing apparatus according to claim 13 , wherein the control unit is further configured to: determine whether a time has elapsed since a start of the vibration of the housing in the first mode; and switch, based on non-response from a user after the time has elapsed, the first mode to the second mode.
This invention relates to an information processing apparatus with a housing that vibrates in different modes to alert a user. The apparatus includes a control unit that activates a first vibration mode to notify the user of an event, such as an incoming call or message. If the user does not respond within a predetermined time, the control unit automatically switches to a second vibration mode, which may have a different pattern, intensity, or duration to provide a secondary alert. The apparatus may also include a sensor to detect user interaction, such as a touch or button press, to confirm a response. The control unit monitors the elapsed time since the first vibration started and transitions to the second mode only if no response is detected. This system ensures that the user receives persistent notifications without requiring manual intervention, improving alert reliability in scenarios where the initial vibration may be missed. The invention is particularly useful in portable devices where tactile feedback is a primary notification method.
15. The information processing apparatus according to claim 13 , wherein the control unit is further configured to switch between the first mode and the second mode based on an instruction from a user.
An information processing apparatus is designed to manage data storage and retrieval in a system where data is distributed across multiple storage devices. The apparatus includes a control unit that operates in at least two modes: a first mode where data is stored redundantly across multiple storage devices to ensure reliability, and a second mode where data is stored in a non-redundant manner to optimize storage efficiency. The control unit dynamically switches between these modes based on user instructions, allowing users to prioritize either data reliability or storage efficiency depending on their needs. The apparatus may also include a storage unit for holding data and a communication interface for interacting with external storage devices. The control unit monitors the storage status of the system and adjusts the storage method accordingly, ensuring that data is either protected against failures or stored in a space-efficient manner. This flexibility allows the apparatus to adapt to different operational requirements, such as high-availability environments where redundancy is critical or cost-sensitive scenarios where storage space is a priority. The user can manually trigger the mode switch, providing direct control over the system's behavior.
16. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein, the vibration unit is further configured to vibrate the housing in a first direction different from the plurality of directions, and the control unit is further configured to control, based on the current position of the housing, the vibration unit to vibrate the housing in one of the first direction or one of the plurality of directions.
This invention relates to an information processing apparatus with a housing and a vibration unit that generates directional vibrations to provide haptic feedback. The apparatus includes a control unit that determines the current position of the housing and adjusts the vibration direction accordingly. The vibration unit can vibrate the housing in multiple predefined directions to convey different types of feedback, such as directional cues or notifications. Additionally, the vibration unit can vibrate in a first direction distinct from the predefined directions. The control unit selects between the first direction and one of the predefined directions based on the housing's current position, ensuring optimal feedback delivery regardless of orientation. This system enhances user interaction by dynamically adapting haptic responses to the device's physical state, improving usability in various applications like navigation, gaming, or accessibility features. The invention addresses the challenge of providing consistent and intuitive haptic feedback in devices that may be held or positioned in different orientations.
17. An information processing apparatus, comprising: a control unit configured to: determine, based on an output from a sensor in a housing, a current position of the housing; determine, based on the current position of the housing, whether the housing is in a certain place; select, based on the determination that the housing is in the certain place, an axial direction from a plurality of directions, wherein the axial direction is closest to a direction of gravity; and control a vibration unit to vibrate, based on the selection, the housing in the axial direction.
This invention relates to an information processing apparatus designed to control vibrations in a housing based on its position relative to gravity. The apparatus addresses the problem of ensuring consistent and effective vibration feedback in devices that may be oriented in different directions, such as mobile devices or wearable electronics. The apparatus includes a control unit that processes sensor data to determine the housing's current position. Using this data, the control unit checks whether the housing is in a predefined location or orientation. If so, it selects an axial direction from multiple possible directions, choosing the one closest to the direction of gravity. The control unit then activates a vibration unit to generate vibrations along the selected axial direction. This ensures that vibrations are aligned with gravity, improving user perception and feedback accuracy regardless of the device's orientation. The system may include additional components, such as sensors and vibration actuators, to support these functions. The invention is particularly useful in applications where precise haptic feedback is required, such as in gaming controllers, fitness trackers, or augmented reality devices.
18. An information processing method, comprising determining, based on an output from a sensor in a housing, a current position of the housing; determining, based on the current position of the housing, whether the housing is in a certain place; selecting, based on the determination that the housing is in the certain place, an axial direction from a plurality of directions, wherein the axial direction is closest to a direction of gravity; and controlling a vibration unit to vibrate, based on the selection, the housing in the axial direction.
This invention relates to an information processing method for controlling vibration in a housing based on its position relative to gravity. The method addresses the problem of ensuring effective and user-friendly vibration feedback in devices that may be oriented in various directions. The system uses a sensor in the housing to determine its current position and checks whether the housing is in a predefined location. If the housing is in the certain place, the method selects an axial direction from multiple possible directions, choosing the one closest to the direction of gravity. A vibration unit is then activated to vibrate the housing in the selected axial direction. This ensures that vibration feedback is optimized for the device's orientation, improving user experience by aligning vibrations with the most intuitive or effective direction. The method may involve additional steps such as determining the housing's orientation, comparing it to reference data, and adjusting vibration parameters to enhance responsiveness and accuracy. The system is particularly useful in portable or wearable devices where orientation-dependent feedback is critical.
19. A non-transitory computer-readable medium having stored thereon computer-executable instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to execute operations, the operations comprising: determining, based on an output from a sensor in a housing, a current position of the housing, determining, based on the current position of the housing, whether the housing is in a certain place; selecting, based on the determination that the housing is in the certain place, an axial direction from a plurality of directions, wherein the axial direction is closest to a direction of gravity; and controlling a vibration unit to vibrate, based on the selection, the housing in the axial direction.
This invention relates to a system for controlling vibration in a portable device based on its orientation relative to gravity. The problem addressed is ensuring that vibrations in a device, such as a smartphone or wearable, are optimized for user perception by aligning them with the direction of gravity, which enhances tactile feedback. The system uses a sensor, such as an accelerometer or gyroscope, to determine the device's current position and checks whether it is in a predefined location or orientation. If the device is in the specified place, the system selects an axial direction from multiple possible directions that is closest to the direction of gravity. The vibration unit is then activated to vibrate the device in the selected axial direction, improving the clarity and effectiveness of the haptic feedback. This approach ensures that vibrations are consistently aligned with the user's perception of movement, regardless of the device's orientation. The invention is particularly useful in applications where precise haptic feedback is critical, such as navigation cues, notifications, or gaming. The system dynamically adjusts vibration direction to maintain optimal feedback quality.
Unknown
April 14, 2020
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